TNF's Developed Recreation Team receives regional award

The Tahoe National Forest's Developed Recreation Team received the 2022 Visitor Experience and Public Access award for outstanding contributions to recreation management in the United States Forest Service Pacific Southwest Region. The award recognizes the exceptional efforts of the team in providing high-quality recreational opportunities for visitors and promoting sustainable use of the region's natural resources. 

The Developed Recreation Team is comprised of staff from across the entire Tahoe National Forest that work together to engage visitors and offer recreation programs for the public. The 2022 award recipients included Tahoe National Forest recreation staff members on the Yuba River, American River, Truckee and Sierraville Ranger Districts. 

"We are honored to receive this prestigious award," said Tahoe National Forest Conservation Education Program Manager Farrah Massoumi. "This recognition is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our staff, volunteers and partners in providing exceptional recreational and educational opportunities for our visitors while simultaneously protecting and preserving the natural resources of the Tahoe." 

Year after year, the team continues to expand and enhance programs and operations to better serve the public and provide world class recreation opportunities on the Tahoe National Forest. The forest first began operating its campgrounds in 2015. Today, the forest operates over 70 campgrounds and employs approximately 40 staff members in both year-round and seasonal recreation positions. 

In order to consistently provide services, the team overcame challenges related to COVID-19 mitigations, such as seeing a 200% increase in visitation including many first-time national forest visitors.  

The team welcomes all visitors and provides public education on safe, responsible recreation  through the use of extensive signage and public engagement. Education includes topics such as the proper removal of trash, transportation safety, trail etiquette, low-impact camping and general outdoor experience tips to both seasoned and new recreation groups.  

In addition, the team was recognized for work expanding public access, reducing fees and mitigating hazard trees in order to reopen several recreation areas. 

The Developed Recreation Team’s accomplishments receive regular praise from both the local communities and far away urban centers that visit the Tahoe National Forest.